The Rivertowns are a collection of historic, picturesque villages and towns lined up along the eastern shore of the Hudson River. What makes them special is that they’re scenic and walkable, with plenty of outdoor access and a down-to-earth vibe. There are a total of eight towns: Ardsley, Croton-on-Hudson, Dobbs Ferry, Hastings-on-Hudson, Irvington, Ossining, Sleepy Hollow, and Tarrytown, with each location having something unique about it. We’re rounding up some of the best things to do in each location during this fall season to ensure you’re enjoying the most out of the Rivertowns.
Ardsley
Ardsley Historical Society
Maintaining collections and hosting events that explore the Village’s past, the Ardsley Historical Society is an over 40-year-old volunteer organization that helps to preserve the history of the Village. This educational institution is also known for having an in-depth history of its role in the American Revolution, a great spot for history buffs.
9 American Legion Drive, 2nd Floor, Ardlsey 914.588.6400/914.393.3222 ardsleyhistoricalsociety.org
Pascone Park
Ardsley has a few parks around the Village, including many “pocket parks.” However, their main one is Pascone, named after Louis Pascone, who was employed by the Village’s Department of Public Works from 1947 until he died in 2010. The amenities include four tennis courts, a basketball court, a softball field, soccer fields, a skatepark, a playground, a gazebo, picnic tables, and restrooms. 507 Ashford Avenue, Ardsley 914.693.8012 ardsleyvillage.gov/parks-recreation/pages/ parks-facilities Croton-on-Hudson Croton Gorge Park This isn’t just an ordinary park. This 97-acre picturesque location features the second-largest hand-hewn masonry work. For some scenic photo-ops, admire the views of the Croton Dam and its spillway, or walk on top of it if you’re feeling daring. The park is popular for fishing, picnicking, and hiking, with direct trail access to New York State’s Old Croton Aqueduct. It’s also great for cross-country skiing in the winter.
35 Yorktown Road, Croton-on-Hudson 914.862.5290 parks.westchestercountyny.gov/croton-gorge-park
Van Cortlandt Manor
This 18th-century estate was built by the Van Cortlandt family and is a representation of the early Dutch colonial period. This 86,000-acre estate is a National Historic Landmark with various architecturally significant buildings and landscapes. During the autumn, visitors can enjoy the Manor’s big event, The Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze, which is home to more than 7,000 illuminated jack o’lanterns that are all designed and hand-carved on site. It also features synchronized lighting and an original soundtrack, complete with drinks and snacks! This event is held through early November.
525 S Riverside Avenue, Croton-on-Hudson hudsonvalley.org/historic-sites/van-cortlandt-manor
Dobbs Ferry
Endless Trail Bikeworx
Looking to explore the Dobbs Ferry area without being on foot? Endless Trail Bikeworx is the go-to spot for your biking adventures. New and experienced cyclists alike can rent a bike that suits their needs, while the staff can provide helpful tips on the best routes and local attractions. Helmets and bike locks are also available for all safety needs and convenience.
20 Cedar Street, Dobbs Ferry 914.674.8567 etbwindobbs.com
The Cookery
Feeling famished? Stop at The Cookery, an Italian gastropub that has been awarded the Michelin’s Bib Gourmand pick five times. Chef and Owner, David DiBari and his team apply soulful Italian cooking principles to all of their inspirations. The menu changes daily with the motto of cooking great food and having fun doing it.
39 Chestnut Street, Dobbs Ferry 914.305.2336. thecookeryrestaurant.com
Hastings-on-Hudson
Hastings Farmers Market
This farmers market is an all-year-round delight, celebrating 25 years in business. Thanks to its large assortment of vendors, the market has created a one-stop destination from dumplings to baked goods, to coffee, dairy, and more. The Market has also regularly purchased many dozens of eggs and apples from their vendors to donate to the Hastings Food Pantry and regularly supports regional agriculture by bringing farmfresh produce and goods from Hudson Valley to the village.
131 Southside Avenue, Hastings-on-Hudson 914.806.3380 hastingsfarmersmarket.org
Penny Lick Ice Cream
Penny Lick opened in 2013 with the goal of bringing back old-fashioned ice cream: a short ingredients list, local dairy, and no artificial ingredients. To make things even more delectable for all customers, the shop is peanut-free, tree nut-free , and sesame-free. From originals like fresh mint chip and vanilla bean, to fun flavors like lemon bar, chocolate coconut, and lavender truffle, there’s something to satisfy everyone’s sweet tooth.
580 Warburton Avenue, Hastings-on-Hudson 914.525.1580 pennylickicecream.com
Irvington
Halsey Pond Park
Considered Irvington’s best-kept secret, Halsey Pond Park is a scenic and tranquil area for passive recreation activities. The park loop allows for a stroll, where you can take in the scenic views of the leaves changing colors over the pond. Its 29.2 acres of lush greenery invite park goers to enjoy a rejuvenating outdoor experience.
Dows Lane, Irvington 914.591.7736 irvingtonny.gov/133/Halsey-Pond-Park
Red Hat on the River
What trip to the Rivertowns would be complete without dining on the water? Red Hat on the River offers those spectacular views of the Hudson River along with its delicious food to create a memorable dining experience. Since 2003, this restaurant has welcomed guests to a beautifully restored 100-year-old factory, where they can enjoy a modern American bistro with patio dining or on a rooftop.
1 Bridge Street, Irvington 914.568.3233 redhatontheriver.com
Ossining
Sing Sing Kill Brewery
This New York farm brewery and taproom is dedicated to brewing craft beer using sustainable practices. Their environmental attributes go from locally sourced ingredients to a zero-waste policy, with manufacturing powered by 100% renewable energy. The space is welcoming to all, becoming a gathering space for those to enjoy a good craft beer with good vibes.
75 Spring Street, Ossining 914.502.0577 www.singsingkillbrewery.com
Sing Sing Prison Museum
The Sing Sing Prison Museum shares stories of incarceration and reform, both past and present. 2026 marks the prison’s 200th anniversary, and the museum is commemorating that with a series of events, including the grand opening of its visitor center and exhibition gallery located in the historic Olive Oepra House. Walking tours are available during the fall season, as well as storytelling events. Furthermore, this museum envisions a justice system dedicated to healing and rehabilitation, and a society that respects individual humanity and dignity.
30 State Street, Ossining 914.263.5407 singsingprisonmuseum.org
Sleepy Hollow
Headless Horseman Bridge
What the legend told of Ichabod Crane being unseated by a pumpkin has become the “most popular destination in Sleepy Hollow that doesn’t exist.” The simple and now decrepit span that crossed the Pocantico River in the late 1700s has long since rotted away. However, the bridge that marks the literary history is near the Old Dutch Church and in what today is known as the cemetery.
415 N Broadway, Sleepy Hollow visitsleepyhollow.com/see/headless-horseman-bridge
Sleepy Hollow Cemetery
The fall season is one of the best times to visit the Sleepy Hollow Cemetery. History buffs, Halloween enthusiasts, and those alike can enjoy this historic cemetery’s 90-acre grounds. The guided tours will unlock some of the secrets behind the stones, as well as show where Washington Irving’s tomb lies. Visitors can choose from a classic daytime tour, a classic evening lantern tour, the “murder and mayhem tour,” or the “good, the bad, and the unusual” tour.
540 North Broadway, Sleepy Hollow 914.631.0081 sleepyhollowcemetery.org
Tarrytown
Goosefeather
Paying tribute to Hong Kong cuisine, with a focus on noodles, Cantonese barbecue, and dumplings, Goosefeather celebrates its main ingredients and emphasizes fresh, seasonal items. Chef Dale Talde uses his imagination and puts it on a plate, utilizing unexpected ingredients like
dry-aged beef and black truffles. Guests can find this restaurant in the King Mansion at the Tarrytown House Estate.
49 E Sunnyside Lane. Tarrytown 914.829.5454 goosefeatherny.com
Lyndhurst Mansion
Overlooking the Hudson River, the Lyndhurst Mansion is a Gothic Revival mansion designed in 1838 by Alexander Jackson Davis. Along with
its architectural beauty, the mansion is complemented by its original decorative arts and the estate’s park-like landscape. Various tours run through December, and they even feature some Halloween season events through November. Visitors can take one of these tours, attend a special event, or even just walk around the gardens.
635 S Broadway, Tarrytown 914.631.4481 lyndhurst.org
